Powered actuator

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

0001This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/218,811, filed on Sep. 15, 2015. The disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

0002The subject disclosure relates to a mechanism system for operating a moveable member, in particularly for operating a powered actuator for a sliding closure, such as a door wall or a window.

BACKGROUND

0003Various windows and doors may be manually opened at a selected time. For example, a sliding door wall, or a sliding window, including a side sliding or a double hung window, can be opened by sliding a sash or pane member in a track. In selected windows, a jamb channel can be formed in a frame member in which the window sash mechanism can slide. In a sliding door a door may ride in a track between an open and closed position. Various handle members may be attached to the frame that holds a window pane to assist in manipulating the door and/or operating a locking mechanism to lock the door.

SUMMARY

0004A powered actuator is disclosed to provide power at a selected time to open and close a sliding sash or door. For example, a sliding door can include a moveable door or panel portion. A power mechanism can be installed relative to the door and be connected to the door to move the door. The power mechanism can include a motor and a controller to the motor. In various configurations, a door wall may include a movable panel and a fixed panel. The powered actuator may be installed in a track of the fixed panel door so that the dimensions, such as headroom through the door, are not changed. Further, the power mechanism can be installed substantially within the frame work of the door so as not to interrupt or change the dimension of the doorwall. The powered actuator can be installed in a window frame in a similar configuration.

0005The powered actuator may generally include a motor that can directly drive or drive through a gear transmission system drive a spiral rod to move a movable member. A clutch mechanism can also be provided to engage and disengage the motor from the drive gears. The clutch mechanism can be engaged to drive the power system to open and close the door and the clutch mechanism can be disengaged to allow free movement of the door. Free movement of the door may occur when a user manually opens and closes the door. A control panel, such as push buttons, can be interconnect with a controller of the motor to operate the motor at a user's command.

0006In one form, a sliding closure assembly includes a frame assembly, at least one sliding closure panel, a second closure member, and a powered actuator assembly. The frame assembly having a first track portion, a second track portion, and a catch portion. The at least one sliding closure panel slides within the first track portion of the frame assembly. The second closure member being adjacent to the at least one sliding closure panel and positioned within the second track portion of the frame assembly. The powered actuator assembly is positioned adjacent to the second closure member and entirely within the second track portion. The at least one sliding closure panel slides within the first track portion of the frame such that an opening is formed through the sliding closure assembly when the at least one sliding closure panel is in the opened position and closed once the at least one sliding closure panel is in a closed position.

0007In some configurations, the first track portion of the frame assembly comprises a first lower track and a first upper track and the second track portion of the frame assembly comprises a second lower track and a second upper track.

0008In some configurations, the first lower track of the first track portion and the second lower track of the second track portion are positioned substantially parallel and adjacent to one another along a length of the at least one sliding closure panel.

0009In some configurations, the first upper track of the first track portion and the second upper track of the second track portion are positioned substantially parallel and adjacent to one another at least over a linear distance the at least one sliding closure panel slides.

0010In some configurations, the at least one sliding closure panel comprises a closing edge that contacts the catch portion of the frame assembly to close and seal the opening through the sliding closure assembly.

0011In some configurations, the at least one sliding closure panel includes a pin attached thereto.

0012In some configurations, the powered actuator assembly is positioned entirely within the second upper track of the second track portion such that the powered actuator assembly does not extend into the opening formed through the sliding closure assembly.

0013In some configurations, the powered actuator assembly is substantially flush with the second closure member within the second upper track of the second track portion.

0014In some configurations, the pin is attached to the at least one sliding closure panel such that the pin is positioned between the at least one sliding closure panel and the powered actuator assembly.

0015In some configurations, the powered actuator assembly extends less than about 0.5 inches to about 2 inches from the second upper track of the second track portion.

0016In some configurations, the powered actuator assembly is positioned parallel and adjacent to the at least one sliding closure panel when the at least one sliding closure panel is in the opened and closed position;

0017In some configurations, the powered actuator assembly includes, a motor configured to drive a drive rod, a transmission gear assembly configured to transfer rotational motion of the motor to the drive rod, a clutch assembly selectively coupling the motor and the drive rod, a solenoid assembly interconnected to the motor and operable to move the motor to engage the clutch assembly, a drive block moveable by the drive rod, and a housing to house at least the motor, the transmission gear assembly, the clutch assembly, the solenoid assembly and the drive block.

0018In some configurations, an engaging member is coupled to the drive block, and the motor is configured to power movement of the engaging member.

0019In some configurations, a spring is disposed between the motor and the clutch assembly and biases the motor to disengage from the clutch assembly.

0020In some configurations, the solenoid assembly and motor are operable via wireless transmission systems.

0021In some configurations, the clutch assembly includes a first clutch and a second clutch.

0022In some configurations, the first clutch is coupled to an axle of the motor and the second clutch is coupled to the drive rod.

0023In some configurations, the motor drives the drive rod when the solenoid assembly moves the motor to engage the first clutch and second clutch.

0024In some configurations, the pin attached to the at least one sliding closure panel is coupled to the engaging member within the frame assembly such that power movement of the engaging member moves the at least one sliding closure panel within the first track portion.

0025In some configurations, the drive rod extends through a bore in the drive member.

0026In some configurations, the drive rod includes a spiral that engages the drive block such that rotation of the drive rod in a first direction causes the drive block to move towards one end and rotation of the drive rod in a second direction causes the drive block to move towards an opposing end.

0027In some configurations, the drive rod spiral has a variable pitch ranging between 0.5 inches and 1.5 inches near each of the first and second ends of the drive rod and a constant pitch of between 1 inch and 4 inches near a middle portion of the drive rod.

0028In some configurations, each end of the drive rod is received in a slot of a rod coupling assembly such that the drive rod is permitted to move about 1° to about 2° relative to a central axis of the coupling assembly.

0029In some configurations, the at least one sliding closure panel comprises one of a sliding door panel or a sliding window sash, such as in a side sliding window or in a hung window.

0030Further areas of applicability of the teachings of the present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description, claims and the drawings provided hereinafter, wherein like reference numerals refer to like features throughout the several views of the drawings. It should be understood that the detailed description, including disclosed embodiments and drawings referenced therein, are merely exemplary in nature intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, its application or uses. Thus, variations that do not depart from the gist of the present disclosure are intended to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

DRAWINGS

0031The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

0032<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is an environmental view of a doorwall and a powered actuator.

0033<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a plan view of a powered actuator with a housing open.

0034<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is a first perspective assembled view of the powered actuator.

0035<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> is a second perspective assembled view of the powered actuator.

0036<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> is a detail environment view of a first powered actuator hanger.

0037<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> is a detail environment view of a second powered actuator hanger.

0038<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> is a plan view of a control switch.

0039<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> is a perspective view of the powered actuator with the housing open.

0040<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> is a cross-sectional view taken along lines <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>-<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>.

0041<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> is a detail perspective view of a drive rod coupling.

0042<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref> is an environmental view of a window assembly with a powered actuator.

0043<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref> is a detail view of the window assembly of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref>.

0044Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

0045Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.

0046With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> a sliding door wall closure assembly <b>20</b> is illustrated. The sliding door wall closure assembly <b>20</b> may include at least one moving or sliding closure door panel or member <b>22</b>. The sliding door member <b>22</b> may slide in a frame assembly <b>21</b> having a first track portion <b>25</b> and a second track portion <b>27</b> such that the sliding door wall closure assembly <b>20</b> forms an opening <b>60</b> therethrough when the door member <b>22</b> is in an opened position and the opening <b>60</b> is closed when the door member <b>22</b> is in a closed position. The door member <b>22</b> may slide in the first track portion <b>25</b> of the frame assembly <b>21</b>. The first track portion <b>25</b> may include a first lower track <b>24</b> and a first upper track <b>26</b> that have surface planes intersecting one another. The sliding door wall closure assembly <b>20</b> may further include a second closure door member or panel <b>30</b>. The second door member <b>30</b> may be sliding or non-sliding (i.e., stationary). The second door member <b>30</b> may be positioned within the second track portion <b>27</b> having a second lower track <b>32</b> and a second upper track <b>34</b>. Both the first and second lower tracks <b>24</b>, <b>32</b> can be substantially parallel and adjacent to one another along a length of movement of the moveable door member <b>22</b> and along a length that would generally find the opening <b>60</b> through the sliding door wall closure assembly <b>20</b>. Similarly, the first and second upper tracks <b>26</b>, <b>34</b> can be generally parallel and adjacent to one another at least over the area over the door member <b>22</b> moves. The moveable door member <b>22</b> includes a closing edge <b>36</b> to contact the frame assembly <b>21</b> to close the opening <b>60</b> through the sliding door wall closure assembly <b>20</b>. The movable door member <b>22</b> including the closing edge <b>36</b> can close into a seal or catch portion <b>40</b> that may be near a wall of a structure <b>42</b>. The movable door member <b>22</b> may further include a handle <b>44</b> for grasping and manually operating the movable door <b>22</b>.

0047With additional reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> and reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2, 3, and 4</figref>, a powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> is illustrated. The powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> can include various portions such as an outer housing that may include a first housing member <b>52</b> and a second housing member <b>54</b>. The first and second housing members <b>52</b>, <b>54</b> may generally form a clamp shell that fits around various internal components, as discussed further herein. The first and second housing members <b>52</b>, <b>54</b>, once assembled, allows the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> to be installed as a unit. The installation of the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> can be generally in the second upper track <b>34</b> of the second track portion <b>27</b> and be positioned adjacent to the second door member <b>30</b>, which may be a non-moving. The powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> may generally fit entirely within the second upper track <b>34</b> such that the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> is substantially flush with the second door member <b>30</b> within the second upper track <b>34</b>. In this way, the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> is positioned relative to the frame assembly <b>21</b> and the door members <b>22</b>, <b>30</b> such that the sliding door wall closure assembly <b>20</b> retains its aesthetic features. Furthermore, a surface plane of the second housing member <b>54</b> may intersect the second lower track <b>32</b> when the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> is entirely within the second upper track <b>34</b> of the second track portion <b>27</b>. The powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> may also be covered by an external fraction or trim member (not shown), if provided. The powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> may also be positioned parallel and adjacent to the movable door <b>22</b> when the movable door member <b>22</b> is in the opened and closed positions. The powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> including the first and second housing members <b>52</b>, <b>54</b> does not decrease the opening <b>60</b> that is formed by moving the movable door member <b>22</b> to the opened position within the sliding door wall closure assembly <b>20</b>. That is, the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> is positioned entirely within the second upper track <b>34</b> such that the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> does not extend into the opening <b>60</b> formed in the sliding door wall closure assembly <b>20</b> thereby permitting full access of the opening <b>60</b> when the door member <b>22</b> is in the opened position. The opening <b>60</b> may generally include a height and width and the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> may extend less than 3 inches, in general less than about 0.5 to about 2 inches from the second track portion <b>27</b>.

0048With continuing reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 4</figref> with addition reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5 and 6</figref>, installation of the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> will be described. As illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>, a fixed first hanging member <b>66</b> can be mounted into an upper surface in the second upper track <b>34</b> with fastening member <b>68</b>. The fixed hanging member <b>66</b> may include a pendant portion <b>70</b> that includes a finger <b>72</b> that may extend from the pendant portion <b>70</b>. The finger <b>72</b> may be engaged in a depression or opening near or at an end portion <b>76</b> of the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b>. During installation, the assembled powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> can be moved to have the depression in the end portion <b>76</b> engaged with the finger <b>72</b>. The depression may be formed in the second guide block or end cap <b>250</b>, as illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>. A set screw in a passage <b>90</b> may be used to assist in fixation of the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> to the fixed hanging member <b>66</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>).

0049An opposed or opposite end portion <b>74</b> of the assembled powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> may have a second depression or opening (not shown) to receive a finger <b>80</b> of a second moveable or flexible hanger <b>82</b>. The opening may be formed in a first guide block or end cap <b>204</b>. The second flexible hanger <b>82</b> may be fixed to the upper surface of the second upper track <b>34</b> with a fastener <b>84</b> in a manner similar to the first hanger member <b>66</b>. A pendant member <b>86</b> has the finger <b>80</b> extending therefrom, however, the pendent member <b>86</b> may be flexible or bendable relative to the second upper track <b>34</b>. Therefore, the assembled powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> may be first moved to engage the first hanger member <b>66</b> and then levered or moved towards the second flexible hanger <b>82</b> while an operator or installer flexes the pendent member <b>86</b> to allow the assembled powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> to move pass the finger <b>80</b>. Once the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> is positioned relative to the finger <b>80</b>, the pendant member <b>86</b> may be released to allow the finger <b>80</b> to engage the depression. It is further understood that the finger <b>80</b> may be positioned such that one of the first and second housing members <b>52</b>, <b>54</b> rests on the finger <b>80</b>. A set screw or a fixation member may be driven into a passage <b>91</b> of the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> to fix the finger <b>80</b> relative to the assembled powered actuator assembly <b>50</b>.

0050During installation, a door engaging member <b>94</b> coupled to the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> includes a slot or receiving portion <b>96</b> that may be aligned with a projection or door pin <b>98</b> attached to the door member <b>22</b>. The door pin <b>98</b> includes a protrusion <b>100</b> that is securely received within the receiving portion <b>96</b> of the door engaging member <b>94</b> thereby coupling the door member <b>22</b> and the door pin <b>98</b> to the door engaging member <b>94</b> and powered actuator assembly <b>50</b>. The door pin <b>98</b> is attached to the moveable door member <b>22</b> such that the door pin <b>98</b> is positioned between the door member <b>22</b> and the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b>. As discussed further herein, a connection with the door engaging member <b>94</b> and the door pin <b>98</b> can allow transfer of a force from the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> to the moveable door member <b>22</b> to move the door member <b>22</b> in its track <b>24</b>, <b>26</b>.

0051The powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> can be operated with various systems, such as a manual switch <b>110</b> illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>. The manual switch <b>110</b> can include various buttons to operate the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> to open or close the moveable door member <b>22</b>, move the door member <b>22</b> to a selected location, and lock and unlock the moveable door member <b>22</b>. The switch <b>110</b> can be wired to directly actuate the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b>. Alternatively, or in addition to the switch <b>110</b> being wired, a wireless transmission may be made by the switch <b>110</b>. Alternatively, or in addition to the switch <b>110</b>, other wireless transmission systems can be used to send a signal to the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b>. Wireless transmission systems may include an infrared transmitter to an infrared receiver, a data transmission protocol such as Bluetooth® data transmission, wi-fi data transmission, or other appropriate wireless data transmission protocol. The sent signal may then be received and a control signal can be made based on the receiver transmission to operate the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b>.

0052With continuing reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2, 3, and 4</figref> and additional reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> includes various components within the first and second housing members <b>52</b>, <b>54</b>. With initial reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> is illustrated with the first housing member <b>52</b> removed to illustrate the internal components more clearly. The powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> may include, in various embodiments, a solenoid actuator <b>120</b>, a motor assembly <b>130</b>, a clutch assembly <b>140</b>, a transmission gear assembly <b>150</b>, a drive rod <b>160</b>, and a drive block <b>170</b>. The drive block <b>170</b> can be directly connected or coupled through an intermediate piece(s) to the door engaging member <b>94</b> such that movement of the drive block <b>170</b> moves the door engaging member <b>94</b>, and when the door engaging member <b>94</b> is coupled to the door pin <b>98</b>, may move the door member <b>22</b>.

0053The powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> operates by the motor assembly <b>130</b> rotating to drive the drive rod <b>160</b>. In various embodiments, however, the solenoid actuator <b>120</b> is initially actuated to move the motor assembly <b>130</b> to engage the clutch assembly <b>140</b>. The solenoid actuator <b>120</b> may also be actuated to move the motor assembly <b>130</b> to disengage the clutch assembly <b>140</b>.

0054The solenoid actuator <b>120</b> may be fixed by a bracket <b>171</b> to the first housing member <b>52</b>. The solenoid actuator <b>120</b> can include a solenoid within a solenoid housing <b>172</b> that is interconnected with a motor housing <b>174</b> by a connector <b>176</b>. Upon activation of a solenoid within the solenoid housing <b>172</b> the connector <b>176</b> can be moved to drive the motor housing <b>174</b> towards the end portion <b>74</b> of the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b>. The movement of the motor housing <b>174</b> towards the end portion <b>74</b> can engage the clutch assembly <b>140</b>, as discussed further herein. A biasing spring (not shown) may be provided to bias the motor housing <b>174</b> away from the end portion <b>74</b> such that the clutch assembly <b>140</b> is generally in a non-engaging position except for when the solenoid is activated. The solenoid can be activated via a power supply and the controller switch <b>110</b> or other controller, as discussed above. Further the power provided to the solenoid maybe through a wired connection to an external source or may be internal to the solenoid or the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b>, such as with a battery.

0055The motor assembly <b>130</b> is positioned between the solenoid actuator <b>120</b> and the clutch assembly <b>140</b> and can include an electrical motor <b>180</b> such as a Igarashi 30 mm electrical motor. The spring is disposed between the motor <b>180</b> and the clutch assembly <b>140</b>. The motor <b>180</b> can drive an axle <b>182</b> coupled thereto. The axle <b>182</b> can engage or be fixed to a first clutch member <b>190</b> of the clutch assembly <b>140</b>. The first clutch member <b>190</b> may include dogs or projections (not shown) that may be received in impressions or holes (not shown) formed in a second clutch member <b>192</b> of the clutch assembly <b>140</b>. The solenoid actuator <b>120</b> can be activated to move the motor housing <b>174</b>, which in turns moves the motor <b>180</b>, the axle <b>182</b>, and the first clutch member <b>190</b>, towards the end portion <b>74</b>.

0056When the first clutch member <b>190</b> moves towards the end portion <b>74</b>, the dogs engage the depressions in the second clutch member <b>192</b>. Therefore, rotation of the first clutch member <b>190</b> causes rotation of the second clutch member <b>192</b>. When the solenoid in the solenoid actuator <b>120</b> is disengaged the motor housing <b>174</b>, the motor <b>180</b>, the axle <b>182</b>, and the first clutch member <b>190</b> can move away from the end portion <b>74</b> such that the dogs in the first clutch member <b>190</b> disengage from the depressions or holes in the second clutch member <b>192</b>. When engaged, the clutch assembly <b>140</b> allows torque from the motor <b>180</b> to be transferred to the second clutch member <b>192</b> and when disengaged no torque is transferred from the motor <b>180</b> to the second clutch member <b>192</b>.

0057With continuing reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 and 8</figref> and additional reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> the second clutch member <b>192</b> is fixed to a first gear <b>200</b>. The first gear <b>200</b> includes a plurality of teeth <b>202</b> around an exterior circumference. The axle <b>182</b> can pass through the second clutch member <b>192</b> and the gear <b>200</b> to be engaged by a cap or guiding block <b>204</b> in an axle guiding bore <b>206</b>. The guiding block <b>204</b> can assist in stabilizing components, including the axle rod <b>182</b>, which can pass through the clutch assembly <b>140</b> and the gear <b>200</b>.

0058The gear <b>200</b> can rotate when the clutch assembly <b>140</b> is engaged, such as the dogs engaging the second clutch member <b>192</b> and the motor <b>180</b> is powered to rotate the axle <b>182</b>. Rotation of the gear <b>200</b> causes movement of the teeth <b>202</b> that couple with a plurality of teeth <b>210</b> on a second gear <b>212</b> that may be a drive rod gear <b>212</b>. As illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>, the drive rod gear <b>212</b> may be radially offset from the first gear <b>200</b>. For example, the drive rod gear <b>212</b> may have a central axis that is spaced a distance from a central axis of the first gear <b>200</b>. Nevertheless, due to the interaction of the teeth <b>202</b> on the first gear <b>200</b> and the teeth <b>210</b> on the drive gear <b>212</b> rotation of the first gear <b>200</b> causes rotation of the drive rod gear <b>212</b>. Therefore, operation of the motor <b>180</b> can cause rotation of the drive rod gear <b>212</b>.

0059The drive rod gear <b>212</b> is coupled with the drive rod <b>160</b> via a rod coupling assembly <b>220</b> as illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 9 and 10</figref>. As illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> the rod coupling assembly <b>220</b> can include an outer coupling cylinder <b>222</b> that may include a flange <b>224</b> at an end of the coupling cylinder <b>222</b>. A slot <b>226</b> may be formed through the coupling cylinder <b>222</b> to receive an end <b>228</b> of the drive rod <b>160</b>. The end <b>228</b> may be flattened to be received in the slot <b>226</b>. Further, a spring pin or holding pin <b>230</b> may be passed through the coupling cylinder <b>222</b> to engage a bore (not shown) in the end <b>228</b> of the drive rod <b>160</b> to hold the drive rod <b>160</b> within the coupling cylinder <b>222</b>. The coupling assembly <b>220</b> may be assembled in the actuator assembly <b>50</b> as illustrated in the cross section in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>.

0060The drive rod coupling assembly <b>220</b> may be positioned within a bore <b>240</b> formed in the guide block <b>204</b>. A bushing or bearing member <b>242</b> can be provided on a selected side of the rod coupling assembly <b>220</b>. Further the rod coupling assembly <b>220</b> can be fixed to the gear <b>212</b> according to appropriate mechanism, such as by welding, adhesive, mechanical connections, including rivets, screws of the like. Therefore, rotation of the gear <b>212</b> may cause rotation of the drive rod <b>160</b> by rotating the rod coupling assembly <b>220</b> because the drive rod <b>160</b> is received within the slot <b>226</b> and, therefore, held fixed relative to the rod coupling assembly <b>220</b> by the slot <b>226</b> and the pin <b>230</b>.

0061Rotation of the gear <b>200</b> causes rotation to the gear <b>212</b> to, in turn, rotate the drive rod <b>160</b>. The drive rod <b>160</b> may not be tightly held within the rod coupling assembly <b>220</b> but may be allowed to move a small amount, such as about 1° to about 2° or rotation relative to a central axis of the rod coupling assembly <b>220</b>. Therefore, strain on the drive rod <b>160</b> may be relieved if the drive rod is over rotated. Further, a rod coupling assembly <b>225</b> may be positioned in the second guide block <b>250</b> that is near the opposite end portion <b>76</b> of the actuator assembly <b>50</b>. The rod coupling assembly <b>225</b> may be coupled to the drive rod <b>160</b> in a similar manner as the rod coupling assembly <b>220</b> described above. Therefore, the drive rod <b>160</b> may be rotationally coupled to both ends <b>74</b>, <b>76</b> of the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b>.

0062The drive rod <b>160</b>, therefore, can rotate when powered by the motor <b>180</b> through the clutch assembly <b>140</b> and the gears <b>200</b> and <b>212</b> via the couplings <b>220</b>, <b>225</b>, as discussed above. The drive rod <b>160</b> includes a spiral <b>260</b> and the drive block <b>170</b> has a bore <b>264</b> through which the drive rod <b>160</b> is passed. Rotation of the drive rod <b>160</b> causes rotation of the spiral <b>260</b> and the drive block <b>170</b> engages the spiral <b>260</b> and moves along a track <b>266</b> formed within the second housing member <b>54</b>. It is understood that the track <b>266</b> is not required and that the drive block <b>170</b> may move along the second housing member <b>54</b> without the track <b>266</b>.

0063The door member <b>22</b>, or other moveable member, may be driven in at least two directions with the drive rod <b>160</b> and drive block <b>170</b>. Rotation of the drive rod <b>160</b> in a first direction, such as in direction of arrow <b>268</b>, selectively determines the direction of movement of the door member <b>22</b> in a first direction (such as towards the end portion <b>76</b>), by operating the motor <b>180</b> with the switch <b>110</b> in the first direction. The drive rod <b>160</b> may also be driven in a second direction, such as the direction of arrow <b>270</b>. The second direction <b>270</b> of rotation causes the drive block <b>170</b> to move in an opposite direction such as towards end portion <b>74</b>. As discussed above, the drive block <b>170</b> is connected to the door engaging member <b>94</b> and therefore can move the door member <b>22</b> once coupled to the door pin <b>98</b> in the selected directions.

0064Various sensors and control mechanisms can also be included within the actuator assembly <b>50</b>. For example, limit or position sensors, such as reed switches <b>290</b> and <b>292</b> may be coupled to controllers to provide a selected position or an end point within the first and second housing members <b>52</b>, <b>54</b>. It is also understood that other selected sensors may be provided to identify a discreet location of the drive block <b>170</b> along the length of the first and second housing members <b>52</b>, <b>54</b> and may be used to assist in controlling the motor <b>180</b>.

0065Accordingly, as discussed above, the actuator assembly <b>50</b> may be installed relative to the door member <b>22</b> to allow for powered movement of the door <b>22</b>. In addition, it is understood that the actuator assembly <b>50</b> may be installed relative to windows, such as a double hung window, to engage a window sash and move a window sash in a similar manner according to the mechanism as described above. It is further understood that variations of the actuator assembly <b>50</b> may be provided without varying the scope of the appended claims. For example, a direct drive of the drive rod <b>160</b> may be provided without including the two drive gears <b>200</b> and <b>212</b> that are radially offset from each other. In addition, alternative clutch systems may be provided rather than the dog clutch as discussed above. Nevertheless, the actuator assembly <b>50</b> may be installed in a door assembly to move the moveable door member <b>22</b>. Further the actuator assembly <b>50</b> may include additional elements such a dust guard or cover <b>298</b> that can at least cover up a portion of a slot <b>299</b> formed through the first and second housing members <b>52</b>, <b>54</b> including the slot <b>96</b> that allows the door engaging member <b>94</b> to couple to the driving block <b>170</b> that is internal to the first and second housing member <b>52</b>, <b>54</b>.

0066The drive rod <b>160</b>, having the spiral <b>260</b>, may have a varying pitch spiral (i.e., twists per unit length) along the length of the rod <b>160</b>. For example, a small pitch of the spiral <b>260</b>, such as a pitch of about 0.5 inches to about 1.5 inches may be provided near the end of the drive rod <b>160</b>, such as the end <b>228</b>. Near a middle of the drive rod <b>160</b> a larger pitch of the spiral <b>260</b> may be included. The larger pitch may be about one inch to about four inches. In various embodiments, it is understood, however, that a constant pitch may be provided. The variation in pitch may allow a variable speed of the drive block <b>170</b> or torque applied thereto. The smaller pitch may apply a larger torque to the drive block <b>170</b> with a power from the motor <b>180</b> that is the same as the power provided when the drive block <b>170</b> is near the middle of the drive rod <b>160</b> having the larger pitch.

0067With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 11 and 12</figref>, as noted above, a power actuator <b>300</b> may be installed relative to a sliding window closure assembly <b>310</b>. The sliding window closure assembly <b>310</b> may include a single- or double-hung window having a first sash or closure panel <b>312</b> and a second sash or closure panel <b>314</b>. Each of the sashes <b>312</b>, <b>314</b> may include a window pane <b>316</b> and <b>318</b>, respectively. At least one of the sashes, such as the first sash <b>312</b>, may be moveable. As illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref>, the first sash <b>312</b> is moveable relative to the second sash <b>314</b>. The first sash <b>312</b> may be slide along a jamb channel, as is generally understood by one skilled in the art.

0068Formed by a window frame <b>322</b> may be the jamb channel including a left track portion <b>324</b> and a right track portion <b>326</b>. The powered actuator <b>300</b> may be installed in one of the track portions, such as the right track portion <b>326</b>. The powered actuator <b>300</b> may be substantially similar to the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> discussed above and illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 to 10</figref>. The powered actuator <b>300</b> installed in the right track portion <b>326</b> can include portions as discussed in relation to the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> including a motor, clutch assembly, drive rod, and driving member similar to those discussed above. The powered actuator <b>300</b> may further include a window engaging member <b>330</b> that includes a slot or pin receiving region <b>332</b> that may receive and/or engage a pin or window member <b>336</b>.

0069The powered actuator <b>300</b> may be installed in a manner similar to the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b>. The powered actuator <b>300</b> can be installed into the right track portion <b>326</b> such that the pin <b>336</b> is received within the slot <b>332</b> of the window engaging member <b>330</b>. As discussed above a controller, such as a switch or transmitter, similar to the switch <b>110</b> or transmitters discussed above, can then be used to activate the powered actuator <b>300</b>.

0070Upon activation of the powered actuator <b>300</b> the first sash <b>312</b> may be moved to open and form create an opening through the frame assembly <b>322</b>. The opening may be defined as an opening cleared by the sash <b>312</b>. Further, the powered actuator <b>300</b> can be installed in the right track portion <b>326</b> such that it does not substantially decrease the design opening through the frame assembly <b>322</b>. As discussed above, the powered actuator <b>300</b> may be installed in the right track portion <b>326</b> and engage the pin <b>336</b> such that it does not extend beyond a track wall a substantial distance, such as no greater than about 0.1 inches to about 1 inches.

0071The powered actuator <b>300</b> can be operated to open and close the sliding window closure assembly <b>310</b>. In so doing, the powered actuator <b>300</b> can operate to move the sash generally in the direction of arrow <b>340</b> when operated in first direction and may also move the window in the direction of arrow <b>342</b> when operated in a second direction. As discussed above, the motor included in the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> can operate in a forward and reverse manner to move a door member in two directions. The motor included in the powered actuator <b>300</b> may also be operated in a forward and reverse manner to move the window sash <b>312</b> in both directions <b>340</b>, <b>342</b>.

0072The drive rod included in the powered actuator <b>300</b> may include a variable or constant pitch, as discussed above. For example, a constant pitch drive rod in the powered actuator <b>300</b> may provide a constant speed of movement of the window sash <b>312</b> along its total travel length, given a constant rate of speed form the motor. Therefore, the window may be opened and closed by moving the sash <b>312</b> at a substantially known rate. The weight of the sash <b>312</b> may assist in forming a seal of the sliding window closure assembly <b>310</b> when moving towards the closed position.

0073In light of the above, it is understood that the powered actuator <b>300</b> and the powered actuator assembly <b>50</b> may be used to move various assemblies. It is further understood that side sliding windows may also be operated with the powered actuator <b>300</b> if the powered actuator <b>300</b> is installed to move a selected sash or window pane in a side sliding manner. The window engaging member <b>330</b> can engage a pin in a side sliding window to move in a side sliding window in a manner similar to the door member <b>22</b> as discussed above in the door wall assembly <b>20</b>. Accordingly a powered actuator, according to various embodiments, can be installed to be relatively unobtrusive relative to a designed or pre-formed opening in an assembly by installing the powered actuator in track portions of immovable or selectively immovable door or window members.

0074Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail.